Since Moreno returned from a hamstring injury three games ago, the Broncos have shown a significant shift in philosophy by playing Moreno on nearly every snap, significantly reducing the role of backup Correll Buckhalter.

Buckhalter has played on only long-yardage situations and in the two-minute offense. He has not had a carry since Week 6 against the Jets, along with Laurence Maroney.

In the past two games, Lance Ball has come in to relieve Moreno — three carries for 10 yards.

“We think (Moreno) has really come on in his development in pass protection. His ability to stay in the game in the passing game has been a big help for us the last so many weeks here,” coach Josh McDaniels said. “He has done a good job with blitz pickup, and he has had his two best games in terms of running the football.

“So we are just going to continue to play him and give him the football because we think that is an important part of our offense. The other guys are ready, we just feel like he is well deserving of the opportunity.”

St. Louis running back Steven Jackson would at least approve of the idea of a three-down running back, since that is the type of player he has been for the Rams for more than five seasons.

“The running back position has changed, and that’s unfortunate,” Jackson said. “If you continue to do this running back by committee, you’re watering down the value of the back.”

More from Quinn.

Broncos tight end Richard Quinn has quietly worked his way into the offense, even taking snaps and practice reps from veteran Daniel Graham when the team uses only one tight end.

“We have tried to limit some of Daniel’s practice reps, and the things that Richard practices well, we have gone ahead and let him continue to do it in the games. So, I think that has been very productive for Richard and for Daniel,” McDaniels said.

With the receiving corps excelling, the tight ends have been largely ignored in the Broncos passing game. Graham has only 14 catches, and only three in the last five games. Dan Gronkow-ski, more of a receiving tight end, has six catches, while Quinn is still waiting for his first this season.

“I think that Richard is just taking his normal course,” McDaniels said. “He played some last year for us, and he’s playing more and more now because I think he’s more ready to play, mentally.

“Physically, he’s always been capable as a blocker, but I think mentally now, the game has slowed down for him. He’s able to see things differently and I think that’s a credit to him and Daniel.”

Familiar face.

Former Broncos safety John Lynch will be the color analyst in the Fox broadcast booth for Sunday’s game. It is the first time Lynch will call a Broncos regular-season game.

“It makes me feel a little older when guys I played with are sitting on sets now, and some of them are younger than me,” Champ Bailey said. “It’s weird, but it’s good to have him there.”

But what if Lynch, who still lives in Denver, has to be critical?

“I don’t expect him to say too many bad things about me,” Bailey said, laughing. “I’m sure if he does, I’ll hear about it. I’ll have to call him up.”

Footnotes.

McDaniels said he expects linebacker Robert Ayers (foot) and D.J. Williams (concussion) to play against the Rams. . . . With wide receiver Demaryius Thomas ruled out with an ankle injury, Perrish Cox and Eddie Royal will likely handle kickoff returns.

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